Many couples are shocked to learn
the average wedding will cost over $10,000. In larger
cities, that amount can easily top $15,000. However, with
good organizational skills, a bit of ingenuity and some
flexibility, it can be done cheaper.

Good communication is essential
when discussing money and budgets. The bride and groom
should discuss the budget openly, and diplomatically,
with their families, but no one should feel pressured to
contribute.

Setting a realistic budget and
sticking to it, is a critical element for keeping costs
down. Couples can easily get carried away during the
planning process, upgrading here and there, quickly
surpassing the budget. The wedding budget can be broken
down into six major categories: reception, music,
photography, flowers, bride's attire and miscellaneous.
As a rough guideline, plan on devoting about 50 percent
of your budget to the reception (including site, food,
drink, rentals, service and cake) and 10 percent each to
the other five categories. These amounts are flexible,
but they do provide a workable starting point.

A custom-made wedding planner is
one way to keep track of all the details, including the
budget. You could also get a loose-leaf binder or
accordion file, divided into all the special sections.
One of the biggest mistakes couples make is not planning
ahead. If things get down to the wire, all budgets may
become useless. Utilize your planner/binder/or file to
stay organized.

When dress shopping, avoid ornate,
hand-done beaded gowns, which are more expensive than
simple styles. Consider buying a sample dress, off the
rack. If you're lucky enough to be the right size for a
sample dress, as opposed to having it custom made, you
can save money. But note, you may have to get the dress
dry-cleaned before the wedding. Another less expensive
option would be a white bridesmaid dress.

For your photos, compare hourly
rates and package deals to see which is more
cost-effective for you. You can have the photographer do
only the formal shots and then ask your guests to take
candid shots at the reception to fill out your album.

As the wedding reception is the
single biggest expense, it's also where you can save the
most money. Reception Halls can be costly, especially if
couples are required to use the in-house catering
service. Search for a site such as a historical home,
park, museum, fairgrounds, public gardens or other
venues. It's always a good idea to avoid the peak wedding
months, May, June, July and August, because all aspects
of the wedding business are more likely to negotiate a
lower fee during slow periods. If you can have your
wedding on a Friday night or Sunday afternoon, your venue
may lower their standard price.

At the reception, control what is
offered at an open bar. If you decide on hard liquor,
include only two or three options such as gin or vodka.
If possible, hire an independent bartender and buy the
liquor at wholesale outlets.

Here are a few more wedding budget stretchers:

1) Check the classified ads for a
wedding dress, chances are, it's only been worn once!

2) Narrow the guest list. If you
have 200 on the list, cut it to 150.

3) Make do-it-yourself centerpieces
for the reception, using balloons or potted plants.

4) Select your flowers carefully.
They will be cheaper if they are in season....tulips in
late March, for example.

5) Instead of a limo, rent a luxury
car and have a friend drive.

6) Have the ceremony &
reception in the same place and have the DJ do the music
for both.

7) Ask relatives if they can help
you cater the event yourself.

8) Rent basic black, non-designer
tuxes, all from the same outlet, and ask for a group
discount.